Remembering Families
(Incredible people from our Greek Community who shall be missed!)
G – L
Gardener Family
Gardener, Aglaia
1862 – 1946
THE DEATH OF MRS. Aglaia Gardener aged 83 years, of 217 27th Street, west, Saskatoon, occurred at her home on March 24. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 27, at 2.30 p.m., from McKague’s Funeral Home. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. J. Ekris, Kentucky. Mrs. A. Bey, Quebec, Mrs. FoFo Papadopoulou in Greece; two sons, Ted Gardener, Edmonton, Joe Gardener, Shasta Cafe. Saskatoon. Burial will be made in Woodlawn Cemetery. 3-27-c
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, March 26, 2946, p. 14.
Gardener, Joseph
? – 1955
Former city man succumbs.
A former Regina Cafe proprietor, Joseph Gardener, 58, died in his Edmonton home Monday from what police described as a self-inflicted knife wound in his chest.
Mr. Gardener, a partner in the Shasta Cafe in Saskatoon and the New Edmonton hotel in Edmonton, died a few minutes after he was found in the bathroom of his home,
Mr. Gardener lived in Regina for about 10 years prior to 1936 when he moved to Saskatoon. From 1919 to 1925 he was a partner with Tom Manos, 8 Belmont apartments, in the Parkview Cafe, 2158 Twelfth avenue, where the Novia Cafe is now located.
Mr. Gardener, of Grecian descent, was born in Turkey and came to Regina after living in the United States for a few years. He worked as a cook in a few cafes, including the Balmoral Cafe in Regina, and the Paris Cafe, Moose Jaw.
He moved to Saskatoon in 1935 and became a partner in the Shasta Cafe. He later became a partner in the New Edmonton hotel and had just recently moved his home to Edmonton. In poor health, Mr. Gardener was semi-retired at the time of his death. He is survived by a wife and two children, all living in Edmonton.
Mr. Gardener, who had many friends in the city, was a frequent visitor in the city.
(Regina Leader-Post, Regina Leader-Post, June 7, 1955, p. 3)
Gardener, Theodore (Ted) Basil
1909 – 1988
Ted Gardener was born in Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1911. He came to Saskatoon with his family in 1923. He attended Nutana and Bedford Road Collegiates. He was employed at the Patricia Confectionary. In 1933, he moved to Edmonton where he started his own business, Teddy’s Confectionary. He returned to Saskatoon in 1936 where he became a partner in the Cameo Cafe. In 1988, he and his brother opened the Cameo Café and Caberet. In 1940, they opened the Shasta Café (formerly the Embassy Café) at 213 Second Avenue South.
In the 1940s, Ted managed the Saskatoon Spartans in the Women’s Fastball League. He also sponsored the Shasta Black Hawks in the Saskatoon Ladies Basketball League. He was a member of Dominion Chapter of the Order of AHEPA. He identified bridge and hockey as his hobbies.
He died in Edmonton in 1988. At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife (Athena), three daughters (Pearl, Maria, and Cleo), his son (Bill), two brothers (Effie and Theo), his mother-in-law (Mary Serif), his sister-in-law (Bessie Gardener), and sons-in-law (Helmut Herder and Stelios Garis). Researched by Ken Pontikes, June 24, 2023.
Sources: Edmonton Journal, March 30, 1988, p. 34; Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 31, 1940, p… 25.
Geatros (William) Family
Bill & Effie Geatros
THE RITZ BLOCK OWNERS, FROM 1931-1985
FORMERLY 118 21ST STE
Hailing from Greece, Bill + Effie grew their roots in Downtown Saskatoon Owners of the Ritz Block, they also operated the Ritz Hotel and Café, and a post-prohibition parlour – the Apollo Room. Both were legendary mentors to Greek-community entrepreneurs. Bill’s award-winning shot earned him the title of Saskatoon’s Official Pigeon Exterminator, and Effie’s colourful seeds + cuttings bloomed in City public gardens.
OTNYXE SEPT. 2021
William Geatros and Family
Geatros, Eftyhia (Effie)
GEATROS EFTYHIA (EFFIE), died suddenly but peacefully at home on Friday, October 5th, 1984. Wife of the late William L. Geatros and mother of Helen, Diane, and Mary. She was Christian in the most profound sense, exemplified by her deep understanding and appreciation for the simple things, in her love of nature, in the way she related to people, and in the way she lived her life. She steadfastly remained true to herself and to her beliefs. It was a privilege to have known her.
Paying tribute to her are sons-in-law William Stratas (Scarborough, Ontario), Derek Fuller (Toronto, Ontar- io), and future son-in-law Jeffrey Murtagh (Toronto, Ontario); her grandchildren Michelle, Bill, Andrea, David, and Christopher, and three great-grandchildren. She will be sadly missed by her brothers and sisters: Maria Marinakos. Nick Pontikes (Chicago); Konstantine Pontikes, Sophia Foufas, Theodoti Pontikes (Greece); Peter Pontikes and Bill Pontikes (Saskatoon).
Since 1949, Effie Geatros was owner/manager of the Ritz Hotel Limited where she worked until her death. She was honored in 1973 with a Life Membership in the Hotels Association of Saskatchewan. She was a member of the Saskatoon Board of Trade, Hotels Association of Sask., the Sask. Restaurant Association and a former member of the Daughters of Penelope.
Prayers will be offered at the Saskatoon Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 9th, at 8:00 p.m. The Funeral will take place Wednesday, October 10th, at St. John’s Anglican Cathedral, 816 Spadina Crescent East starting at 3:30 p.m. Laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery. Out of respect for the passing of Effie Geatros the Ritz Hotel and Restaurant will be closed Wednesday, October 10th.
Geatros, William Leonidas
One of the best trap shoot marksmen of Western Canada, William “Bill” Geatros, 58, died at his home at 807 Lorne Avenue Sunday evening. He had been ill more than a year. Mr. Geatros was a former holder of the Saskatchewan- Manitoba trapshooting championship and a member of the five-man Saskatoon trapshooting team which won the Canadian championship several years ago. He was a member of the Saskatoon Gun Club.
To Saskatoonians generally he was probably best known as the man who was given special dispensation by the city to shoot pigeons which were a nuisance around public buildings.
In 1937 he broke 50 consecutive targets in winning the Saskatoon championship.
Mr. Geatros arrived in America before the First Great War, coming to Weyburn, where he operated a restaurant with his brother Edward, before moving to Saskatoon in 1931.
He was born at Kastri, ArcaCia, Greece. On moving to Saskatoon, he opened the Ritz Cafe, later the Ritz Hotel,
Surviving are his widow and three daughters, Helen, Rose, and Mary. James Chrones, owner of the Gem Cafe, was a nephew.
Funeral services will be held in St. John’s Cathedral at 3 o’clock Wednesday afternoon with the Park Funeral Home in charge.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, July 11, 1949, p. 3
Stratas nee Geatros, Diane Rose
1931 – 2007
Diane Rose Geatros was the middle daughter of William (Vasilis/Bill) Leonidas Geatros and Eftyhia (Effie) Pontikes/Geatros. She was born in Saskatoon on December 12, 1932.
She studied hotel resort administration at the Ryerson Institute of in Toronto, where she excelled in her studies, received several scholarships, and graduated at the “top” of her graduating class. In 1954, she returned to Saskatoon to become the manager of the Ritz Hotel and Café.
Diane was actively involved in Saskatoon’s hospitality industry. In 1956, she served as the secretary and regional director for the Canadian Restaurant Association in Saskatchewan. She was also a council member of the Saskatoon Board of Trade.
Diane continued her involvement with the Ritz and the Saskatoon business community until her marriage in July 1957 to William John Stratas. The new couple chose to live in Toronto where William was a veterinarian. Diane continued her association with the Ritz Hotel and Café through Geatros Holdings, which consisted of Effie Geatros and her two sisters. All three Geatros daughters had relocated to Toronto, leaving Effie alone to manage the business in Saskatoon.
In 1979, Diane was elected to the Canadian House of Commons as the Member for Scarborough Centre. She was the first woman of Greek Canadian heritage to be elected to the Commons. As a member of the Progressive Conservative government, she also served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State.
In 1994, Diane received a Lifetime Women’s Achievement Award from the Greek Community of Metropolitan Toronto. In 2021, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada recognized Diane by including her in a list of “outstanding Greek Canadians”.
Diane died on May 4, 2023, at the age of 90.
At the time of her death, Diane was predeceased by her husband, William J. Stratas. He was survived by three sons: Willian, David, and Christopher.
Researched by Ken Pontikes, July 8, 2023
Green/Karatasis, James
1893 – 1970
James Green and his brother, Thomas, were born in Tripolis, Arcadias, Greece. James was born in 1893 and Thomas was born in 1886. Their Greek family name was Karatasis.
Thomas emigrated to Canada in 1906; James joined him in 1912. Subsequently, James and Thomas (who married to Wanda Kraft) moved to Estevan where they operated the Victoria Café which was located across the street from the railway station. In 1912, they sold this business and constructed the Palace Café. In 1918, they bought property to the south of Estevan, on which they built the River Park Pavilion.
Thomas died in 1918, during the Spanish flu epidemic. He left Wanda with two sons (George and William) and two daughters (Sophie and Olga).
In 1923, Wanda and James sold the Palace Café. In 1925, they and Wanda’s brother Joseph build the Princess Café. James subsequently operated the Diana Café in Swift Current.
In 1931, James moved to Saskatoon and joined in partnership with Bill Geatros of Weyburn operated the Savoy Café, which was given a new name – the Ritz Café”. The partnership in the café continued until around 1934 when Bill became the sole operator of business.
In March of 1939, James and John Mirras went into partnership to operate the Embassy Café, located in the D.C. Block. However, the café only operated until July of that year.
He was a charter member of the Estevan Elks Lodge No. 113 and member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Masonic Victory Lodge No. 144, and the Order of AHEPA.
James died in 1970 in Saskatoon. At the time of his death, he was survived by two nieces (Sophie Johnston [Calgary] and Olga McFarland [San Francisco]) and two nephews (George and Bill Green [Estevan]).
Researched by Ken Pontikes, May 29, 2023.
Sources: A Tale that is Told: Estevan 1890 – 1980, Volume II, Estevan Book Committee, 1981, p 840; Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, April 9, 1970, p. 26, March 24, 1939, p. 3; and July 29, 1939, p. 23; Canadian census data.
Kakbelakis, Fr. Constantinos
1932 – 2017
Please join us to memorialize the life of Reverend Father Constantine Kakabelaki who passed away peacefully on July 28, 2017. Father Constantine was ordained into the priesthood in 1967 in London, Ontario. Along with his wife, Presbytera Eleni, he served churches in Kingston, Calgary, Saskatoon, Sarnia, St. John’s New Brunswick, St. Catherine’s, and Toronto.
For those who knew him he had a passion for the Orthodox faith, and he was dedicated to teaching others to grow as Christians. Whenever he was blessed with a new parish, he made it a priority to establish, along with Presbytera, bible studies, Sunday school, and youth programs to promote Orthodoxy. He strongly believed that youth are the future of the church.
He is now with our Lord and Saviour. He leaves behind his wife, Presbytera Eleni and his daughters Antonea and Maria, his son- in – law Harry, grand-daughters (Elena, Christina, Constantina, Andrea), his surviving brothers and sister in Greece, (Stelios, Dimitri, Katina), and numerous nieces and nephews. He joins his beloved and deceased siblings Athanasios, Anastasia, Maria. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hellenic Home for the Aged (http://www.hellenichome.org/donationsFundraising/waysOfGiving.asp) or St. Kosmas Aitolos Greek Orthodox Monastery (https://www.stkam.org/contactus.html).
Kangles, Chris
1936 – 1994
KANGLES The death of Chris Kangles, age 57 years of Saskatoon, SK occurred in St. Paul’s Hospital on Wednesday, April 20, 1994, following a two-year courageous battle with cancer. The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 23 at 10:00 a.m. from the Koi- missis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (corner of Dufferin Avenue and Eighth Street) with Rev. Father John Nikolaou officiating. A Prayer Service will be held on Friday, April 22 at 9:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Saskatoon Funeral Home.
Chris is survived by his loving family: his wife, Soula; his son. Tom; his daughter, Daphne (Gerry) Lagimodiere; his grandchildren, Krista and Maria; his mother, Daphne in Greece; his brothers, Kostas (Toula), John, and George (Dimitra) all in Greece; and many relatives and friends in both Canada and Greece. He was predeceased by his father, Anastasios.
Chris was born August 2, 1936, in Kastri, Greece. He immigrated to Regina, Canada with just a little change in his pocket in August 1956 and for a brief time lived in Kitimat and Banff before coming to Saskatoon to make his home. In 1964, Chris returned to Greece to marry his childhood sweetheart, Soula. He worked as a bartender at various restaurants until establishing his own, the Delphi Family Restaurant in January. 1983.
Chris was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and was known as “Mr. Excuse Me” to his many friends. His trademark was to welcome everyone with his radiant smile and a kiss. The success of his restaurant was directly related to his desire to please everyone. He was a strong supporter of the Greek Community and a member of the Ahepa Fraternal Club.
Chris will be lovingly remembered by those whose life he touched with his kindness and generosity. Honorary Pallbearers will be: George Antonopoulos, Chris Arvanitis, Dave Arvanitis, Steve Arvanitis, John Danabassis, George Karras, John Kounougeris, Gus Kutsogiannis, Ron Lagimodiere and Peter Pontikes. Active Pallbearers will be John Arvanitis, Peter A. Bezbes, Nick Kokonas, James Kosmas, Alex Liakopoulos and Tasos Selimos.
The effort, care, and compassion of the following are gratefully acknowledged: Dr. B. Fern, Dr. S. Chary, Dr. A. Maksymiuk, Dr. H. Vachhrajani, Dr. H. Ma, Dr. Sharma, and all the wonderful nurses at City Hospital, Royal University Hospital, and St. Paul’s Palliative Care Unit. Floral tributes are gratefully declined. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of the Donor’s choice. Interment will take place in the Greek Section of Woodlawn Cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the SASKATOON N FUNERAL HOME.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, April 22, 1994, p. 54.
Karabelis, (George & Madge)
George Karabelis and his wife, Madge, are standing in front of the Commercial Café (1929)
Source: Saskatoon Public Library, Local History Room (LH-6022)
Karabelis, George Thomas
Circa 1894 – 1962
George Karabelis who owned and operated the Commercial Café on 20th St. west since 1928 died in hospital on June 17, 1962.
Mr. Karabelis was born in Masklina, Greece, and came to Canada in 1911. He operated businesses in Weyburn and in Chicago before moving to Saskatoon in 1928 when he bought, in partnership with George Chitsas, the Commercial Café.
Mr. Karabelis had been president of the AHEPA Lodge of Saskatoon and was secretary for many years. He was past president of Saskatoon restaurant association, the Riversdale Businessmen’s Association, and a member of the Elks Lodge. He was an active member of the Liberal Party.
At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Madeline, two brothers and two sisters.
Researched by Ken Pontikes, May 17, 2023.
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, June 18, 1962, p. 2.
Karabelis, Madeline (Madge)
Circa 1906 – 1994
Madge Karabelis was born in Poland. She married George sometime before 1924
After arriving in Saskatoon, Madge worked with her husband George as a cashier at the Commercial Café.
At the time of her death, Madge was survived by nephew Tom (Tassia) Karas (Saskatoon), niece, Tina (Peter) Bezbes (Saskatoon), nephew Kenneth Lane Showers (Victoria, B.C.) and nieces, nephews, and other relatives in Canada and Greece.
Researched by Ken Pontikes, May 29, 2023
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, July 12, 1994, p. 15.
Karahalios Family
Karahalios, Demetrios (Jimmy)
1965 – 2014
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Jimmy on March 8, 2014.
He was born in Montreal, Quebec. He moved to Saskatchewan in 1982, later moving to Alberta.
Jimmy was a kind, good hearted person, always trying to help people in need. He loved his family and dear friends, always looking forward to catching up with everyone. He was a wonderful son, brother, and friend. His passion was cooking. He loved food and experimenting with new recipes. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his sisters. He was predeceased by his parents.
In Jimmy’s memory donations can be made to a charity of your choice. We wish to thank all our friends and family for their amazing love and support throughout this difficult time. We are also forever thankful to Father Bernard and Father George for their spiritual guidance and support.
A private funeral was held for Jimmy. We are eternally grateful to Martens Warman Funeral Home. Arrangements entrusted to MARTENS WARMAN FUNERAL HOME (306-934-4888).
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, March 21, 2014
Karahalios, George
1933 – 2003
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved husband and father, George Karahalios on the 18th day of October 2003 at the age of 70 years.
George was born in Stephania, Sparti, Laconias, Greece on January 10, 1933. He was a military police officer in the Greek Army for five years. Leaving Greece in 1961 George and his wife immigrated to Canada. They lived in Montreal for many years later moving to Saskatoon.
He leaves behind to celebrate his life, his wife Pota (Minakakis); his three children, Tonia, Jimmy, and Helen. He is also survived by his father. Dimitrios: his brothers, Nick, and Bill; his sister. Argiro and their families. He was predeceased by his mother. Antonia (Bambakitou).
We wish to give thanks to the staff at St. Paul’s Hospital for their support. We will always remember him for the kind and wonderful person he was.
The Vigil of Prayer will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. at Westwood Funeral Chapel, Avenue N and 20th Street. The Funeral Liturgy will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2003, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent of Lerins Orthodox Church. 224-25th Street West.
At George’s request. donations can be made to the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Diabetes Association, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to WESTWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL (653-3434).
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, October 21, 2003, p. 31
Karahalios (née Minakakis), Pota
1936 – 2013
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Pota Karahalios on the 28th day of November 2013 at the age of 77 years. She immigrated to Canada from Greece in 1958. She was born in Sparta, Greece.
She leaves behind to celebrate her life, children Tonia, Jimmy and Helen. She was predeceased by her husband George, her parents, and her brothers.
We wish to thank the staff at St. Paul’s Hospital for their support. We will always remember her for the kind and wonderful person she was.
Prayers for Pota will be Monday, December 2, 2013, at 7:00 pm, and the Funeral Service will be Tuesday, December 3, 2013, at 11:00 am. Both services will be at St. Vincent of Lerins Orthodox Church – 821 Avenue E North, Saskatoon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Saskatoon Cancer Centre – 20 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK. S7N 4H4. Arrangements are entrusted to Westwood Funeral Chapel. Ph 306-653-3434.
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, November 30, 2013
Karas, Athanasios (Tom)
1945 – 2012
Athanasios (Tom) Karas, age 66, passed away on Tuesday, September 18th, 2012. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Anastasia, son George, daughter and son-in-law, Evaggelia and Gord with grandson Tommy, brother Stelios, sister and brother-in-law Konstantina and Peter, along with family in Greece, numerous nieces and nephew, countless friends and extended family from the Greek Communities of Saskatoon and Regina.
Athanasios was born November 11th, 1945, in the town of Kastri, Arkadia, Greece and immigrated to Saskatoon in 1969 to fulfill his dreams of a better life in Canada. He worked hard in the restaurant industry and became a restaurant entrepreneur with his brother-in-law Peter, at Peter’s Place restaurant in Saskatoon for 17 years.
He will be remembered as a hard working, honest, driven, passionate, supportive man who liked to always have a good laugh and cared deeply for the people he loved. Family always was of utmost importance in his life and was devoted to his wife and children. In his spare time at home, you would always find him in his garden where his hard work resulted in beautiful harvests of fresh vegetables that he enjoyed eating with his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, if you so choose, you may give to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan in honor of Athanasios. A Prayer Vigil will take place at Saskatoon Funeral Home on Thursday evening September 20th at 8:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held on Friday afternoon September 21st at 1:00 pm at Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (1020 Dufferin Ave) in Saskatoon, with interment following at the Greek Orthodox section of Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home. 244-5577
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, September 20, 2012.
Karras/Voulgaris Family
Karras (née Kokonas), Dimitra
1920 – 2008
It is with sadness that the family of Dimitra Karras announces that her death occurred at her residence in Saskatoon on Thursday, July 3rd, 2008.
Dimitra was born on May 15th, 1920, in Kastri Greece to parents Spyro and Anastasia Kokonas. She is survived by her daughter, Katerina, and son-in-law. Mike Voulgaris, six grandchildren and six great- grandchildren. Dimitra was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Panagiotis Karras: and her son, George.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the staff at Stensrud Lodge for their care and support. Prayer Services will be led by Fr. Michael Michael and Fr. John Nickolaou on Monday evening, July 7th, 2008 at 8:00 p.m. from Saskatoon Funeral Home (4th Ave. and 25th St.) followed by a reception at the W.A.Edwards Family Centre. The family will travel to Greece for the Funeral Service which will take place in Paralion Astros Greece. Dimitria will be laid to rest there beside her beloved husband, Panagiotis.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations made to the Stensrud Lodge (2202 McEown Ave. Saskatoon, SK S7J 3L6) would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, July 5, 2008, p. 23.
Karras, George
1956 – 1999
KARRAS George died peacefully in the arms of his family on the morning of Thursday. December 30, 1999, after a long struggle with cancer at the age of 43.
He will be forever remembered by his wife. Sharon; his daughter. Chandra and husband Richard Leather, his daughter, Carla, and friend Cory Zetterstrom: and by his son. Peter Karras who will carry on the family name, his parents. Panagiotis and Dimitra Karras of Parallo Astros, Greece; his sister, Kathy, husband Mike Voulgaris and family of Saskatoon: Uncle Nick Kokonas and Aunt Georgia and family of Saskatoon: mother-in- law, Verna Holdner of Young. SK: brother-in- law. Alvin Holdner of Young. SK: brother-in- law, Larry Holdner and family of Mission, BC: sister-in-law, Leila, husband Greg Mainville and family of Lloydminster; sister-in-law, Linda. husband Dwight Meunier and family of Lloydminster; numerous family and friends here and in Greece.
George was born in Paralio Astros Greece in December 1956 and came to Canada at the age of 15 where he worked in the restaurant industry. For the last seven years he owned and operated Alberto’s Restaurant.
The family extends special thanks to all our family and friends for their caring and visits during his illness. Thank you to Dr. Chary and Home Care for their kindness. He will be truly missed by all who shared in his life. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Saskatoon Palliative Care Program.
The Prayer Service will be held Sunday, January 2, 2000, at 3:00 p.m. from Park Funeral Chapel, 311 Third Avenue North. The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 3. 2000 at 2:00 p.m. conducted by Rev. Father John Nikolaou from the Greek Orthodox Church (Koimissis Tis Theotokou), 1020 Dufferin Avenue, Interment will take place in the Greek Orthodox section of Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Greg Lalach of PARK FUNERAL CHAPEL
244-2103
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 31, 1999, p. 32.
Katsiris, (Dimitra & Konstantine)
Katsiris, Dimitra
1917 – 1999
With heavy hearts, the family announces the passing of our mother and grand- mother. Dimitra passed peacefully at the Royal University Hospital, surrounded by her loved ones.
She was born in Eleohorion, Greece in 1917. It was in her hometown that she met her husband, Constantine Katsiris. She was married at the age of 23, in 1940. However, not long after their first child was born. Constantine had to fight for Greece in World War II, and the Greek Civil War which followed.
Miraculously, Dimitra raised her nine children through the depression, with a strength that cannot be described by words. Even after the wars were over, it was still a troubled time in Greece, but the family survived by the love. courage and indomitable spirits of both Dimitra and Constantine. As time went on and the children grew, Dimitra and Constantine knew that to provide their children with a better life, they would have to send them to Canada.
One by one, they sent their children away, and eventually, they were able to join their children. In Canada in 1972. Dimitra was very happy in Canada, finally able to see her children again. Dimitra was a religious woman, with a great love for God and her religion. She also loved her family, and loved to see her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her face would light up whenever one came to visit, and when they left, she would stand out- side, waving, until they could not be seen.
She was a very friendly woman, with a great sense of humour, always quick to laugh, despite the hard times. She was never angry and had no unkind words for anyone. Dimitra loved nature, and she loved to nurture life. She filled her home and garden with plants and flowers and loved to be outside enjoying their beauty.
Now, Dimitra can live her great love for God in heaven, forever watching over her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren for many generations to come. She leaves behind her family of 64 people, including her husband Constantine Katsiris of 60 years, her children: Niki (Bill) Pappas, Ted (Marina) Katsiris, Soula (Napoleon) Petrotsakos. George (Ritsa) Kat- siris, Bill (Helen) Katsiris, Nick (Mary) Kafsiris, Anthony Papadatos, Mike (Diane) Katsiris, and Albert (Gloria) Katsiris, her 35 grandchildren. and her seven great grandchildren.
We will be saying goodbye at the prayers held Monday evening. October 25, 1999, at 7:00 p.m. at the Saskatoon Funeral Home. The Funeral will be held in Saskatoon at the Greek Orthodox Church (“Kolmisis Tis Theotokou”), 1020 Dufferin Ave. on Tuesday, the twenty-sixth day of October 1999 at 2:00 p.m. Flowers will graciously be accepted or a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Interment will take place in the Greek Orthodox section of Wood- lawn Cemetery, Arrangements have been entrusted to the SASKATOON FUNERAL HOME.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, October 26, 1999, p. 26.
Katsiris, Konstantine
January 16, 1911 – January 14, 2008
It is with great sadness; the family announces the passing of our father and grandfather (Pappou). Konstantine passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born in Eleohorion, Greece in 1911. It was in his hometown that he met his wife of 59 years, Dimitra Pontikis, and together they raised nine children. Through those difficult times, the family survived on faith, love, and courage.
Both Dimitra and Konstantine knew that to provide a better life for their children. they would have to send them to Canada. One by one, they sent their children over- seas, and in 1972, they were able to join them in Saskatoon. Now Pappou joins his beloved Dimitra, forever watching over their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren for many generations to come.
He leaves behind his children: Niki (Bill) Pappas, Ted (Marina) Katsiris (in Greece). Soula (Napoleon) Petroutsakos. George (Ritsa) Katsiris, Bill (Helen) Katsiris, Nick (Mary) Katsiris, Anthony (Tony) Papadatos, Mike (Diane) Katsiris, Albert (Gloria) Katsiris: his 36 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. We will be saying goodbye at the Prayers held Thursday evening, January 17, 2008, at 8:00 p.m. at the Saskatoon Funeral Home.
The Funeral will be held at the Greek Orthodox Church (“Koimisis Tis Theotokou”), 1020 Dufferin Ave. on Friday, January 18, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Saskatoon City Hospital. Email condolences can be made to mail@saskatoonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home, 244-5577.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 18, 2008, p. 23.
Kokkas, (Chris & Stacy)
It is with great sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of a dear husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Chris was born in Athens, Greece on April 23, 1930, and came to Saskatoon in 1962 to build a new life and raise his young family. He became involved in the restaurant business and established several well-known businesses, Golf’s Steak House, Cyrano’s, and the Golden Anchor. He enjoyed being around people and establishing lasting relationships. In his retirement years he was still making new friends at Revelstoke, BC.
He and Rena (his beloved wife of 44 years) operated a seasonal resort dining room at the Three Valley Gap Resort. Those who knew him remember his integrity, great sense of humour and generous heart. He was a trusted confidant and a mentor to many. Strong insight and conviction made him a special person.
He was proud of his Greek heritage as was demonstrated by his involvement and support of the Greek Community, where he served as president of the Community and member of the Ahepa Organization.
Chris will always be loved and re- membered by his wife, Rena; son and daughter, Ricardo and Mercina; grandchildren, Litera, Dmitri and Aiden; daughter-in-law, Elizabeth; sister, Virginia Golf: many relatives and friends. His young daughter, Stacy, predeceased him in 1980.
We are comforted in knowing he has joined her. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorial donations appreciated if directed to any children’s charity, as Chris’ charity of choice was to assist and support children in need.
Prayers will be held on Thursday, January 25 at 7:30 p.m. from the Acadia Drive Funeral Chapel. The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 26 at 2:00 p.m. from the Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (corner of Dufferin & 8th Street) with Rev. Father John Nikolaou presiding. Interment will follow in the Greek Section of Woodlawn Cemetery. Reception at the Travelodge-Galaxy B Room. Arrangements are entrusted to John Schachtel, ACADIA DRIVE FUNERAL CHAPEL (955-1600).
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 25, 2001, p. 29.
The death of Stacy Kokkas, age 13 years, of 38 DeGeer Crescent, Saskatoon, occurred in a local hospital on October 9th, 1980.
The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, October 11th, at 2:00 p.m. in the Kimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church, 1020 Dufferin Avenue, Saskatoon, conducted by Father John Nikolou. McKague’s Funeral Home will oversee arrangements.
Surviving are her parents, Chris, and Rena Kokkas, one sister, Myrna Kokkas, and one brother, Ricardo Kokkas.
Miss Kokkas was born in Saskatoon. She was a Grade 8 Student at College Park School at the time of her passing. She was very active in piano and ballet and was a top student in school. Miss Kokkas was very athletic and was a winner in many track competitions. Stacy was a very sweet and considerate child. Interment will be made in the Woodlawn Cemetery.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, October 11, 1980, p. 44.
Kokonas, Mario John
? – 2011
Mario John Kokonas, beloved husband of Fotina and dear father of John and Agelo, died peacefully with family by his side on Tuesday, July 19, 2011, at the Assiniboine Centre, at the age of 67 years.
Mario moved to Canada in 1958 at the age of 15 to reside in Saskatoon with his brother, Spero, and father, John. His father went back to Greece and his brother, Albert, came shortly thereafter. They helped each other adapt to our beautiful country of Canada, a land filled with opportunity for those willing to work hard and make sacrifices for a better life. In this regard, all three brothers flourished. With the marriage to his wonderful wife, Fotina, on November 4th, 1971, and the birth of his sons, John and Agelo in 1974 and 1976 respectfully, he was finally complemented and the origins of his legacy of family business were on the horizon.
After several smaller ventures in the restaurant and service industry, Mario matured into the Brandonite and restaurateur we all knew and loved. Mario was never formally educated, although, he learned through the school of life, graduated with honours, and truly became a professor to many. Mario lived in many towns and worked various jobs to realize his dream of self-employment. He was known in the community for the Voyageur restaurant in Minnedosa in the early 70’s with his brothers, Albert and Spero. He then became involved with Kokonas Restaurant in Brandon in 1974, which he started with his brother, Albert. He finally realized his true calling with pizza in 1981 with Romana Pizza, his own business, and the rest is history.
After his first attempt at retirement in 2000, Mario embarked on his last venture; a retirement project with his family called Marino’s Pizza. For those who don’t know, Marino is Greek for Mario, and we all spent his last handful of years there together in his home, not his workplace.
Mario was a simple, modest, hard-working man, who participated in life unconventionally to successfully have a hobby for his job. When he wasn’t working at his hobby, he enjoyed his apple trees, day trips to Clear Lake and the outdoors in general.
Mario is survived by: his wife Fotina, sons John and Agelo, his mother Chrisoula in Greece, his sister Marina in Greece, his sister Matoula (Nick) in Chicago, his brother Spero (Sophia) in Toronto, his brother Albert (Violeta) in Brandon, his brother-in-law Bill Galanis, his brother and sister-in-law Peter and Toula in Greece, and a plethora of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family that are typical to a Greek family. This includes all the people we were lucky enough to interact with throughout his time on earth. Our employees were our family, and our customers were our relatives. He was predeceased by: his father John from Greece, his brother-in-law Manoli from Greece, his father and mother-in-law Agelo and Eleni from Greece.
Thank you to all the people who helped Mario and our family over the years in and out of the restaurants. Thank you to all the good staff at the hospital who helped us through our many days there. Thank you also to Dr. Egan and the Issigonis family for going above and beyond to extend his time on earth. Thank you to everyone we interacted with and participated with over the years that allowed us to be part of our community of Brandon. Thank you to all for the prayers and well wishes for Mario – we hope that life will reciprocate those thoughts and feelings to all of you and your families in this lifetime.
Prayers were held at the Brockie Donovan Chapel, on Friday, July 22, 2011. The Funeral Service took place at the Brockie Donovan Chapel on Saturday, July 23, 2011, with Fr. Spiridon Vandoros officiating. Interment followed at the Brandon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mario may be made to a charity of choice.
Source: Brandon Sun, July 30, 2011
Kokonas, Nikitas (Nick)
1926 – 2004
KOKONAS Nikitas (Nick). It is with great sadness the family announces the death of Nick Kokonas on Wednesday, January 21, 2004, at the age of 77 years.
Our dear husband, father, grandfather will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 43 years, Georgia: his son, Spero (Tressa); his daughter, Tasia (Ann) (Bill); and his cherished grandchildren. Angeliki and Alexandra. Also left to mourn is his sister. Dimitra and many adoring nieces and nephews.
Nick was born in Kastri, Arkadias, Greece on October 15, 1926. In the early years, Nick worked on the family farm. He met his future wife on a day trip to a neighbouring town in 1959.
In 1960, Nick came to Canada to begin a new life. He sent for his future bride, Georgia and they married in 1961. Nick worked in a variety of restaurants, The Elite, Golf’s Steak House, and he became a well-respected chef. After saving enough money, Nick opened his very own restaurant, The Commercial Cafe in 1962. From there, he went to work at Hy’s Steak House in the early 70’s. He became a proprietor of the Commodore Restaurant in 1973. From 1980 until his retirement in 1994, he continued as a proprietor in the Granada House Restaurant.
After retiring in 1994, Nick enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Nick always took pride in his culture and faith which led him back to his homeland often. Nick helped establish and worked very hard in maintaining the Greek culture in the Hellenic Greek Community of Saskatoon. Family and friends were very important to Nick. With the help of Georgia, Nick helped may friends and relatives establish themselves after immigrating to Canada. Nick will remembered for his generosity and his great sense of humour.
Prayers will be held on Sunday, January 25, 2004, at 7:30 p.m. from the Acadia Drive Funeral Chapel (915 Acadia Drive). The Funeral Service will be held from Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (1020 Dufferin) Monday, January 26, 2004, at 10:30 a.m. conducted by Rev. Fr. John Nikolaou. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery – Greek Section.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial donation can be made to the Saskatchewan Parkinson’s Disease Foundation (Box 102, 103 Hospital Drive. Saskatoon, SK, S7N OW8). Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Mervin G. Oleksyn, ACADIA DRIVE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 955-1600.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 23, 2004, p. 28.
Kontogiannopoulos, Peter
1945 – 2009
It is with profound sadness the family announces the tragic accidental death of Peter Kontogiannopoulos which occurred on Sunday, July 19, 2009. Peter will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Georgina; son, Constantine (Nikie), grandson Angelos; daughter, Alexandra; mother, Alexandra in Greece; brother, Nikos (Maria) and their children, Alexandra, and Athena in Greece. Peter will also be dearly missed by brotherin-law, Chris Ridis; sister-in-law, Helen Popadopoulos; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Peter was born December 25, 1945, in Lygourion, Greece. He immigrated to Toronto, Canada in 1969, later relocating to Saskatoon where he worked for many years in the carpentry trade.
Funeral Services will take place today, Thursday, July 23, 2009, at 3:30 p.m. at Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (8th St. and Dufferin Ave.) followed by interment in the Greek Orthodox section of Woodlawn Cemetery. A reception will follow at the W.A. Edwards Family Centre (333 4th Avenue North). The service will be celebrated by Rev. Fr. John Nikolaou and Rev. Fr. Michael Michael. Condolences may be sent to mail@saskatoonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to SASKATOON FUNERAL HOME 244-5577.
Kortes/Koutsokostas Family
- Chris Kortes/Koutsokostas
- Helen Kortes/Koutsokostas
- Thomas Kortes/Koutsokostas
- Gust Kortes/Koutsokostas
- Edward William Kortes
- George John Paul Kortes
- Tinos Kortes
- Achilles (Brownie) Kortes/Koutsokostas
Kortes (Koutsokostas), Chris (Christos)
Circa 1889 – 1969
CORTES THE PASSING OF MR. Chris Kortes, age 80 years, of 719 Victoria Ave., Saskatoon, occurred in a Saskatoon hospital on April 14th, 1969. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 16 at 2 p.m. from Park Funeral Chapel conducted by Rev. V. Stamas of Regina.
Surviving are his loving wife Helen; one daughter. Mrs. N. Spillios (Charlotte) of Edmonton, Alberta: two sons, Tinos of Saskatoon, Paul of Correnna, Ontario: one sister. Mrs. Steve Leakos of Saskatoon and two brothers, Paul Kortes and Bill Kortes both of Edmonton, Alberta.
Born in Greece, Mr. Kortes came to Canada 72 years ago. In 1907 he came to Saskatoon and then moved to Calgary where he resided-for several years. Mr. Kortes moved to Moose Jaw, Sask. in the early 1930’s and in 1936 moved to Saskatoon where he had resided until his death. He operated the Paragon Cafe for a number of years and was active in the Ahepa Lodge. Interment will be made in the Greek Orthodox Cemetery. Courtesy parking north of the Chapel.
4-16-c
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, April 15, 1969, p. 18.
Kortes, Mrs. Helen
On July 19th, 1974, Mrs. Helen Kortes of Saskatoon, widow of Chris Kortes, passed away. She leaves to mourn her loss, two sons, Paul of Sarnia, Ontario, and Tinos of Saskatoon; one daughter, Mrs. Nick (Charlotte) Spillios of Edmonton; one granddaughter, Thana Spillios of Edmonton; one brother and one sister in Greece.
Funeral services will be held on Monday at St. George Greek Orthodox Church (10056 114 Street), the Very Reverend Peter Karras will officiate, and interment will take place in the Westlawn Memorial Park. Foster and McGarvey Limited. Funeral Directors.
Source: Edmonton Journal, July 20, 1974, p. 20.
Kortes (Koutsokostas), Thomas
Circa 1895 – 1952
Thomas Kortes, 57, of 640 Eighth Street, east, well-known proprietor of the Paragon Cafe, died suddenly in a local hospital Friday. He was taken to hospital Friday afternoon and died three hours later.
Mr. Kortes, who came to Saskatchewan from his native Greece, had operated the Paragon Cafe for the last 20 years. Before that he had worked in the restaurant business at Shaunavon and Moose Jaw.
He was a member of the Ahepa-organization, holding the position of Marshall of the Order of Ahepa for Royal District 24.
He is survived by his widow, Edith; a son, Edward; two brothers, Gus and Chris, and a sister, Mrs. Steve Leakos, all Saskatoon; and three other brothers, Paul, and Bill, who operate the St. Regis hotel in Edmonton, and George, who is still in Greece.
Funeral arrangements, being handled by Park Funeral Chapel, are not completed.
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, October 4, 1952, p. 3.
Kortes (Koutsokostas), Gust
? – 1965
On August 6, 1965, Mr. Gust Kortes of the Clover Bar Foundation for Senior Citizens, passed away. He leaves to mourn his loss, four brothers, George in Greece, Paul of Edmonton, Chris of Saskatoon, and Bill of Fort Saskatchewan; three sisters, Mrs. Chrisanthe Kafandris and Mrs. Gus (Helen) Antonikis in Greece and Mrs. Steve (Agatha) Leakos of Saskatoon; one granddaughter, Mrs. Barbara Siegel of Saskatoon.
Prayers will be said on Monday at 8:00 p.m. at the Foster and McGarvey Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 10056 114 Street, Reverend John Floropoulos will officiate, and interment will take place in the Westlawn Memorial Park. Foster and McGarvey Limited Funeral Directors.
Edmonton Journal, August 9, 1965, p. 24.
Kortes, Edward William
1925 – 2013
Ed died in Victoria Hospice on the evening of June 30, 2013. He was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. February 3, 1925, the only child of Edith Schmidt and Thomas Kortes.
Ed spent his youth in Saskatoon, moved to Edmonton in 1954, and retired to Victoria in 1987. He graduated from the University of Saskatchewan (economics) and the University of Alberta (education) and found teaching high school students to be the most satisfying of several careers.
Ed enjoyed friends and conviviality, animals (especially cats). philanthropy, words, humour, golf, wine, Victoria, and his home. Although he said. “Leaving Canada is like camping out,” he enjoyed travel and travel-photography and his many trips to Australia and Greece.
He is survived by Maggie, his wife of 40 years, and cousins in Edmonton, other parts of Canada, the U.S.A. and Greece, as well as by Maggie’s Australian family. Gratitude is due to the Clinical Teaching Unit and Victoria Hospice, Victoria, for their many weeks of professional and gentle care.
Ed’s family and friends are invited to a reception in his honour on Wednesday, July 10. 2013 from 3:00-5:00 p.m., Harbour Room, Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, 45 Songhees Road, Victoria. An appropriate memorial gift would be to Victoria Hospice, 1952 Bay St., Victoria, B.C. V8R 1J8.
Victoria Times Colonist, July 6, 2013, p. 40.
Kortes, George John Paul
1918 – 1945
George Kortes was born in Moose Jaw. He is the son of Gust and Persephone Kortes. George moved with his family to Saskatoon in 1933. He attended Nutana Collegiate.
He was an active member of Saskatoon’s Greek community. For two years, he served as secretary of Dominion Chapter of the Order of AHEPA.
George enlisted with the Royal Canadian Army in 1939. He went to Europe in 1940. George was a gunner with the 13th Battery, 6th Field Regiment of the Royal Canadian Artillery. He was wounded and died, at the age of 26, in Holland on April 17, 1945, and is buried in Groesbeak Canadian War Cemetery in the Netherlands.
Kortes Lake in northern Saskatchewan is named after Geroge. He has also been honored in Saskatoon by a memorial tree at Woodlawn Cemetery. His name is listed on a memorial plaque at Nutana Collegiate that identifies former students who sacrificed their lives during World War II.
At the time of his death, George was survived by his wife, Mary, and his daughter Barbara, who were living in Saskatoon.
Researched and written by Ken Pontikes, June 13, 2023.
Kortes, Tinos
1926 – 2014
Tinos Kortes was born in 1926. He was the son of Chris and Helen Kortes.
Tinos received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Manitoba in 1949. He had spent a couple of summers during his studies as a draftsman in the firm Webster and Gilbert in Saskatoon. Upon graduation, he returned to work as an architect in the same firm.
In the early 1950s, Tinos set up his own firm in Saskatoon which he operated continuously until his retirement in 1987. Some of the buildings in Saskatoon which he designed included educational facilities (Lorne Haselton Elementary School which is now occupied by the Saskatchewan Abilities Council, Montgomery Elementary School, Ogle Hall which was formerly St. Pius X Seminary at the University of Saskatchewan), recreational facilities (Gordie Howe Kinsmen Arena), office buildings (Saskatchewan Teachers Federation Building, Remai Building), churches (St. David’s Trinity United Church, Eatonia United Church), restaurants (Jay Dees, The Suburban), and several residences.
Tinos advocated for a downtown skyline for Saskatoon which was respectful of its heritage buildings. In a May 15, 1982, article in the Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, he argued that new buildings in Saskatoon’s downtown “should have been developed in such a manner that the Bessborough was isolated and preserved as the focal point of the city”. He called for height restrictions on new buildings constructed in the downtown to reflect Saskatoon’s “prairie setting”. He also advocated for construction that made greater use of local materials, such as stone and wood.
Tinos demonstrated his views with his design of the Remai Building at 500 Spadina Crescent. The building was designed to “harmonize” with the nearby Kiwanis Park and the South Saskatchewan River. It is finished on all sides which is consistent with our prairie environment where buildings are generally viewed from all sides. For the design of this building, Tinos received an award in 1976 from the Saskatchewan Architects Association.
Tinos was a member of the Saskatoon Camera Club; He was an accomplished photographer and won awards for his photos. Tinos was also a member of Dominion Chapter of the Order of AHEPA.
At the time of his death, he was survived by his sister, Charlotte, and her husband Nicholas Spillios of Edmonton.
Researched by Ken Pontikes, June 12, 2023, Sources: William P. Delainey, Heritage Research Contract – Saskatoon Architects, Saskatoon Public Library, 1999; Derek Ferguson, “Architect Kortes sees loss of identity in city skyline”, Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, May 15, 1982, p. 88; “Tinos Kortes”, Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, February 3, 2014.
Kortes (Koutsokostas), Achilles (Brownie)
Circa 1897 – 1949
Achilles Kortes Dies Suddenly
Achilles Kortes, 52, Paragon Cafe proprietor, died of a heart attack as he was buying fruit for the cafe early this morning.
“Brownie,” as Mr. Kortes was known to his friends, had complained of pains in his heart lately. Just before his death he had complained again of those pains.
He came to Saskatchewan in 1914 and lived in numerous towns and cities in the province before settling in Saskatoon in 1932. He and his brothers opened a cafe business in 1934 in which he was actively engaged up to the time of his death.
Mr. Kortes was a past president of the Ahepa, a local Greek organization. He is survived by his widow, a daughter, Evangeline, five brothers and two sisters.
Park Funeral Chapel is completing funeral arrangements.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, November 17, 1949, p. 3.
Kosmas Family
Kosmas, Konstantinos “Dino”
February 22, 1944 – April 30, 2008
Konstantinos “Dino” Kosmas, age 64, of Saskatoon passed away on April 30, 2008, after a short spirited battle with cancer. He had his family by his side.
Born in Kastri, Greece on February 22, 1944, to Kosmas and Efthimia Kosmas, Konstantinos was the oldest of four boys. He attended school in Greece and made many lifelong friendships with the people of his village and surrounding area. He lived in Germany for a short time before he joined the Greek Army at age 18. He drove a taxi in Athens for a while before deciding it was time to move.
With very little money. he immigrated to Adelaide, Australia in 1967 where he worked at Chrysler, as a metal finisher, as well as a freelance photographer. He took time for fun and relaxation: taking photography and fishing on the weekends. He married in Adelaide and started a family.
Never one to sit still or wait around, he followed his brothers to Saskatoon in 1976. He was proud to become a Canadian citizen in 1980. A strong work ethic paid off, enabling Dino to buy his own restaurant that same year. Owning a restaurant and cooking came easily for him. Dino’s great passion for food and cooking was even stronger than his accent!
He is survived by his two sons, Kos (Keri), and Hristos as well as granddaughters Efthimia and Anastasia all of Saskatoon. Also surviving him are his three brothers, Viasi of Saskatoon, George of Calgary, and Albert (Vicky) of Astros, Greece. Dino leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, cousins. Godchildren and his dear friends.
A strong, passionate person, Dino put his all and excellence into everything he did. Dino’s ethics and style inspired those around him. Dino worked hard for his family, always with the goal of making a better life for those he loved. He was always a gracious host. Dino made preparing huge Greek feasts look easy and guests were always made to feel comfortable and relaxed. He often opened his home to relatives and enjoyed entertaining them, taking them to all his favorite places.
Some of Dino’s fondest travel memories were of trips with his family to Greece, Florida, the Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls as well as day trips to Blackstrap and Pike Lake where friends and family would gather. He also enjoyed frequent, short trips to seek out the finest lamb, feta, and olives in the region.
Díno loved gardening. He took great pride each year in his impressive harvest of apples, raspberries, and tomatoes. He looked forward to his regular visits with his friends at the restaurant and counted on his friends to stop in and visit him. Many friends came to visit him each morning for coffee and the regular Sunday night “Greekfests” were times Dino looked forward to.
A generous person, Dino was always happy to help someone less fortunate than himself; just to make their life a little easier made him feel good. At the same time, he was always modest and felt strongly about equality. Still a big kid at heart, he enjoyed taking his grandkids shopping for foys. He loved cars, especially German cars: anything German, actually. As he said. “The Best”! Dino could quote the Bible and really enjoyed religious as well as political debates, especially over a good cup of coffee. The debate didn’t have to be serious: he just enjoyed joking around with friends, talking about life.
Dino will forever hold a place in our hearts. A Father, Grandfather “Pappou”, Uncle “Theo”. friend and businessman, Dino will be missed by so many as there were so many lives he touched. He was an original. There will never be anyone like him. We celebrate his memory.
A Prayer Service will be held Wednesday May 7, 2008, at 8:00 p.m. from Acadia Drive Funeral Chapel (915 Acadia Drive, Saskatoon, SK). The Funeral Service will be held Thursday May 8, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. from Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (1020 Dufferin Ave. Saskatoon, SK). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency (400 2631 28th Avenue, Regina, SK S4S 6X3) or the Canadian Cancer Society (438 2nd Avenue North, Saskatoon, SK S7K 2C3). Arrangements have been entrusted to Chris Nickell, ACADIA DRIVE FUNERAL CHAPEL 955-1600.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, May 6, 2008, p. 33.
Kosmas, George
1945 – 2021
George Kosmas passed away on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at the age of 76 in Calgary, Alberta. He was born in Kastri, Greece to Kosmas and Efthimia Kosmas. He grew up in Greece but moved to Canada in the 1970’s, settling in Saskatoon.
He operated several restaurants in Saskatchewan before moving to Calgary where he ultimately retired. He had a great passion for food and laughter. George is survived by his brother, Albert (Vikky); children, Anna (Jimmy), Effie (Trustin), and Sophia (Ryan); and grandchildren, Seth & Aaron. He is predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Dino and Vlasi; and his daughter, Caroline.
A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at 11:00 am at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (1 Tamarac Crescent SW, Calgary, AB), followed by Graveside in St. Patrick Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in George’s memory to a charity of your choice. To view and share photos, condolences, and memories of George, please visit www.choicememorial.com.
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, October 12, 2021.
Kosmas, Vlasios
1946 – 2009
Vlasios Kosmas passed away peacefully in Saskatoon on Tuesday, April 14, 2009, at the age of 62 years. He is survived by two daughters, Nicole, and Deana Kosmas; two brothers, Albert (Vasiliki) and George; four nieces, Effie, Sophie, Anna, and Caroline (Andrew); five nephews, Chris, Kos (Keri), and their mother Anna; Tim (Yota), Jim, and Kosmas. He was predeceased by his parents, Kosmas and Efthimia; and by one brother, Dino.
He was born in a small village in Greece and then came to Canada in 1974 to seek a better way of life. He married in 1983 and had two wonderful children, Nicole, and Deana. He owned and operated two restaurants in Saskatoon, and he took great pride in being a chef. In later years, Vlasios worked at the Venice House in Sutherland as a chef.
He enjoyed playing games, especially poker. He was a private man, spending time with his circle of friends who will dearly miss his sense of humour and his easy-going demeanor.
The Prayer Service will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. at Acadia Drive Funeral Chapel (915 Acadia Dr, Saskatoon, SK). The Funeral Service will take place on Friday, April 24, 2009, at 1:00 p.m. from Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (1020 Dufferin Ave. Saskatoon, SK) conducted by Rev. Fr. Michael Michael. Interment will follow in the Greek Section of Woodlawn Cemetery, Saskatoon. Arrangements are in care of David Schurr ACADIA-MCKAGUE’S FUNERAL CENTRE 955-1600.
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, April 20, 2009
Kosmas, Vasiliki (Caroline)
1983 – 2010
In the 26 years that Caroline was with us she accomplished many things and touched many lives. Caroline was a bubbly and positive person that was always making new friends. She was a person filled with hope and a constant inspiration to people who met her. She had a distinct sense of community and was always working hard to foster the communities she believed in. She combined ambition and dedication to turn her ideas into realities. Always volunteering, Caroline selflessly donated her time, energy, and resources to her local and global community. She did not just think or talk about helping people; she made it happen.
Caroline devoted much of her time and wonderful energy to leading the women’s wellness programming at SWITCH. The Women’s Pampering Nights have seen over 150 women from Saskatoon’s core neighbourhoods get a much-deserved break from their busy and often difficult lives. Caroline also volunteered her time at the Saskatoon Community Clinics. Her most recent initiative was working on social entrepreneurial initiatives in Zambia, Africa, with her husband Andrew.
Caroline’s medicine classmates voted her ‘Spirit of the College’ in 2007. In their nomination letter, her peers stated:
“Caroline is an exceptional medical student, classmate and friend. When you don’t see her smiling face, she is often somewhere in the college advocating on behalf of students for important changes to the curriculum or at SWITCH where she gives much of her time and wonderful energy to leading the women’s wellness programming.
“Her contribution to SWITCH includes organizing the very popular Women’s Pampering Night. This event, which has been repeated due to popular demand, has seen over 150 women from Saskatoon’s core neighbourhoods get a much-deserved break from their busy and often difficult lives. One only must look at the people she has touched to see that she cares deeply for others – her classmates, her family, people who are disadvantaged in our community and the people who will be her future patients.
“Caroline’s many activities and interests in the college and the community reflect her commitment to social justice. Her dedication to defending our increasingly threatened public health care system is both important and admirable. Caroline worked to raise awareness about the Medicare conference in Regina on May 5th and 6th, 2007. She didn’t stop at the College of Medicine, but contacted all the health science disciplines and organized carpooling, billeting and volunteering to reduce barriers for students to attend. She is also working to integrate more education on healthcare economics and organization into the medical school curriculum.”
If one were to describe Caroline, they would say she was the most caring, kind, intelligent, funny, thoughtful, and selfless person you would ever meet. She had the brightest smile and the biggest heart. She would drop everything to help a friend or even a stranger. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of all those who knew her. She will be sadly missed and forever loved.
Inspired by the values Caroline lived her life by and worked so hard to promote, her family and friends have created Caroline’s Foundation to honour her memory. The Fund is being established with the Saskatoon Community Foundation, a registered charity which will enable gifts to be charitably receipted. Donations will be distributed to the kinds of social causes into which Caroline poured so much of her time, energy, and love.
Source: Connective Issue, University of Saskatchewan (College of Medicine Alumni), Spring 2010, p. 19.
Leakos Family:
Danabassis (née Leakos), Evangeline (Vangie)
1926 – 1992
The death of Evangeline (Vangie) Danabassis age 66 years of Saska toon, Saskatchewan occurred at Royal University Hospital on Monday, October 5, 1992. The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 8 at 2:00 p.m. from the Komissis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (1020 Dufferin Avenue) with Rev. Father John Nikolaou officiating. A Prayer Service will be held Wednesday evening, October 7th at 8:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Saskatoon Funeral Home (corner of 4th Avenue at 25th Street).
Vangie is survived by her five children, Cathy (Manny), Maragos of Saskatoon, Stephanie (George) Birlirakis of Saskatoon, Peter (Shelley) Danabassis of Saskatoon, Michael Danabassis of Saskatoon and Anne Danabassis of Vancouver, BC: her three grandchildren, Andrea Maragos, Kristy Danabassis and Katona Dana basis. One brother, Spero (Georgia) Leakos of Saskatoon; one sister in law, Jeanne Leakos of Saskatoon and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, James Danabassis in 1985; by her father, Steve Leakos in 1975; by her mother, Agatha Leakos in 1965 and her brother, Dr. James Leakos in 1991.
Vangie was born on May 28, 1926 in Vancouver, BC and at an early age moved with her family to Moose Jaw, and in 1931 moved to make their home in Saskatoon. She attended Victoria Elementary School. Albert Elementary School, Buena Vista Elementary School and graduated from Nutana Collegiate.
Vangie enjoyed playing basketball in High School and later played with the Adilman Aces for a number of years. She loved music of all kinds. Vangie was an accomplished violinist and was a member of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra for many years.
She married James Danabassis on July 3, 1949, who she met while visiting in Vancouver. Vangie and Jim had been involved in the Restaurant and Hotel industry in Saskatoon and Sparwood, BC for many years. She took great pride in her vocation of cooking, which she truly enjoyed.
She had a genuine interest in people and was there to help and listen whenever it was needed. Vangie was an active member of the Saskatoon Greek community and the Daughters of Penelope.
Vangie was dearly loved and will be fondly remembered by her family and many friends. (In lieu of flowers. Memorial Donations would be appreciated to the Saskatoon Cancer Centre, 20 Campus Drive, Saskatoon S7N 4H4 of the Saskatoon United Way, 201 336 5th Avenue, North. Saskatoon S7K 2P4).
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, October 8, 1992, p. 2
Leakos (neé Kortes), Agata
1904 – 1985
Agata Leakos (nee Kortes)
The death of Mrs. Agatha Leakos age 80 years of #8 MacDermid Crescent, Saskatoon occurred in a local hospital on July 12, 1985. The Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, July 16 at 1:30 p.m from Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church, 1020 Dufferin Avenue conducted by the Rev. John Nikolaou. Prayers will be offered on Monday, July 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the Chapel of Saskatoon Funeral Home. (In lieu of flowers, donations to the Saskatchewan Abilities Council, 1410 Kilburn Avenue or the Canadian Diabetic Association, would be appreciated.) Surviving is a daughter, Mrs. Evangeline
(James) Danabassis of Saskatoon; two sons, Spero (Georgia) Leakos, and Dr. James (Jeanne) Leakos both of Saskatoon; fourteen grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a brother, Paul Kortes of Edmonton and a sister, Helen in Greece. She was predeceased by her husband, Steve on March 26, 1975. Mrs. Leakos was born in Bezoula, Karditsa, Greece on October 10, 1904. She came to Vancouver, B.C. in 1920 and lived there until 1927 when she moved, with her husband to Moose Jaw. In 1930 she came to Saskatoon and had lived here since. Mrs. Leakos was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church. She had been very active in the Greek Community and for this was awarded a plaque on March 11, 1974 from the community in appreciation of her efforts. Mrs. Leakos was a member of the Daughters of Penelope and had served as President. Interment will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, July 15, 1985, p. 26
Leakos, Dr. Jim
The eminent physician and prominent horse breeder Dr. Jim Leakos, died Monday March 18, 1991 in Saskatoon. He was 62. Jim once said he firmly believed people should develop more than one interest in life.
The Saskatoon doctor took his own advice and divided the better
part of his 62 years between horses and medicine.
JIM LEAKOS … enjoyed sports
The funeral was held at Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Church, with Saskatoon Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
The ear, nose and throat specialist was born in Saskatoon to Agatha and Steve, a well-known local restaurateur.
As a youth, he spent countless hours in his father’s cafe, the Commodore, a popular gathering spot for local athletes.
Perhaps it was this influence that prompted Leakos to become active in sports from a young age
A short-lived involvement with hockey included winning the city public championship while he was Grade student at King George School.
In high school, he and his brother, Spero, played on a basketball team which Jim captained to Nutana’s first provincial championship in 1948. The two also joined forces on the Nutana boys soccer team which won two consecutive city championships.
Later, Leakos played semi-pro baseball with the local Commodores and toiled with the fastball Merchants at the Canadian championships in 1948.
Horse racing didn’t hold the slightest interest until he moved to Calgary as a medical intern Then, his interest in the sport was purely recreational as he devoted most of his energy to a budding career specialty.
Following a two-year tenure at the University of Saskatchewan, he moved to the University of Alberta before interning in Edmonton and Calgary. In 1966, he headed to New York to study his specialty. Leakos spent three years there before returning to Saskatoon to establish his practice.
He was a pioneer in otolaringology, performing the first ear operations in Canada during the early 1960s.
As his star rose in the medical community, he also became interested in horses through his daughter Sandra’s involvement with the Pony Club
As he became more accustomed to horses, he got involved in a thoroughbred breeding operation in 1977 and dreamed of raising a horse that would win the Triple Crown.
His Marrobrich was the first local-born horse to win the Saskatchewan Derby in 1982.
Leakos is survived by his wife Jeanne and six children.
Jeanne Leakos
1927 – 2022
With sadness the family announces the death of Jeanne Leakos occurred peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Monday, December 19, 2022. She is survived by her children; Sandra (Stewart) Foster, Steven (Shona) Leakos, Suzanne Leakos, Mark Leakos, Robert (Gina) Leakos, Richard (Rhonda) Leakos, twelve grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband James, daughter-in-law Wanda and her 10 siblings.
Jeanne was born in 1927 in Bellevue, SK. She attended nursing school in Prince Albert and met her husband James in Calgary. They moved to New York where James did his residency at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital. They moved back to Saskatoon in 1959, where they raised their six children eventually moving to the farm south of Saskatoon. She moved back into Saskatoon in 2013 where she lived until her passing.
Until the pandemic, mom attended church every Sunday in person but since she has been attending online and praying the Rosary daily. Mom enjoyed ceramics, painting, puzzles, Sudoku, aqua size and playing trivia crack with her friend Faye. Mom enjoyed spending time with family. She hosted many holiday gatherings on the farm and always included family and friends, so no one was alone on special holidays.
In lieu of flowers, for those so wishing, memorial donations may be made to the Saskatoon Food Bank.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated by Fr. Stefano Penna on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. Condolences may be left for the family at www.saskatoonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home.
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 21, 2022
Leakos, Spero
1928 – 2020
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, March 10, 2020
Baseball builder and ‘humble guy’ made an impact on local diamonds.
Spero Leakos relives memories in this 2003 photo, with artifacts from the Commodores. GORD WALDNER PILES
Leakos Field named for man who ran the Commodores.
Article by: KEVIN MITCHELL
Spero Leakos, whose love for baseball influenced a city, died this weekend at the age of 92.
In 1971, The Star Phoenix described Leakos as being “as familiar to baseball in Saskatoon as Rusty Staub is to Montreal and Brooks Robinson is to Baltimore.”
Leakos was in the stands when Don Larson threw his perfect game in the 1956 World Series, and they named a ballpark after him here in Saskatoon calling it Leakos Field. But Spero’s modesty prevented him from referring to it that way.
He would never call it Leakos Field. He would always say “Oh, it’s over on that other field,” Greg Brons, Baseball Saskatchewan’s high-performance director, said Monday. I’d say, “You mean Leakos Field?” “Yeah, yeah, yeah. Whatever.”
“I always loved that about him He was just a humble guy, you know?”
Leakos, whose family worked in Saskatoon’s restaurant business, ran the semi-pro Saskatoon Commodores in the 1950s and 60s, hiring future Major League players such as John Boccabella to play locally.
He moved his Commodores into the North Saskatchewan League after the Western Canada Baseball League folded and ran them into the 1970s. He later operated the Dodgers in the Saskatoon senior league and maintained a wide web of baseball contacts.
In 1969, Star Phoenix columnist Bob Hughes wrote that Leakos worked virtually alone in keeping the Commodores and senior baseball alive in Saskatoon, often at his own financial expense, and added that at night’s game, “he’ll be breathing fire and baseball, just like he always has.”
When Leakes moved to Calgary in 2004, long-time baseball executive Pat Gillick, a good friend, made sure to head into Saskatoon for his farewell tribute. That tribute, they figured, was one way to get Leakos out of the ballpark, even if it was just for a few hours.
“He was involved for so long, putting all his time and energy into it”, Brons says.
“At his send-off, he thanked Goorgia, his wife. Georgia didn’t see him a lot because he was always at the baseball diamond. He sacrificed lot for baseball in Saskatoon.
“When you’re coaching baseball, we just play so many danged games, and when our summers are as short as they are, we try to compress them into a short time span. So, you’re away from your family a lot, and he mentioned that at his send-off, thanking Georgia for her patience.”
Naturally, Georgia received her engagement ring while they headed to Dodger Stadium one day. They raised three sons.
Leakos was a big sports fan in general, with basketball another favourite. But in the summertime, dusty diamonds were his favourite stopping point.
“He never wanted the limelight.” Brons says.
“He just loved being at the ball- park.”
Leakos, Steve
1892-1975
Source: Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, March 27, 1975
Steve Leakos dies at 83
Saskatoon restaurateur and sports enthusiast Steve Leakos died in a local hospital Wednesday following a lengthy illness.
Mr. Leakos, 83, of 8 MacDermid Crescent, operated the Commodore Cafe 108 Second Ave. North from 1933 until his retirement in 1973.
He was active in organizing hockey and fastball and sponsored the Commodores, a team in the Western Canada Baseball League from 1968 until 1963 when the league was disbanded. He continued to sponsor a Saskatoon team under the Commodore name in the Northern Saskatchewan Baseball League until 1973.
In 1970, Mr. Leakos offered the city of Saskatoon a 960,000 interest-free loan to construct a baseball park, but aldermen did not accept the offer.
The city would have been responsible for maintaining the park, and the loan would have been repaid through revenue from the park.
Mr. Leakos was born in Greece and emigrated to the United States in 1906. He then moved to Vancouver in 1923 and Moose Jaw in 1927, prior to settling in Saskatoon.
Mr. Leakos served as president of the dominion chapter No. 9 of the Order of Ahepa and also as district governor of Order of Ahepa No 24.
He is survived by his wife Agatha, sons Dr. James Leakos and Spero Leakos all of Saskatoon, and a daughter, Mrs. James Danabassis of Sparwood, British Columbia.
Funeral service will be Saturday at 2 pm, from Assumption Greek Orthodox Church at 1029 Dufferin Ave with interment in Woodlawn Cemetery.
Limberatos, Joseph
1890 – 1951
The funeral service for Joseph Limberatos, who passed away on July 16. was held from the chapel of the Saskatoon Funeral Home on Friday, July 20, at 2 o’clock, conducted by the Rev T. Kowalishin. Pallbearers were: K. Chronis, N. Barootes, J. Chitsas, L. Chronis, W. Pontikes, G. Blasis. Interment took place in the Greek plot in Woodlawn Cemetery Surviving are: one brother, Nestor, Portland, Oregon, and six brothers and three sisters in Greece.
The late Mr. Limberatos was born in Greece and came to the United States 44 years ago. He came to Canada in 1913 and had resided in Saskatoon for the past 31 years. Mr. Limberatos was in business in Wilkie for a time and had managed the Wilkie Cafe on First Avenue in Saskatoon.
7-23-c
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, July 21, 1951, p. 21.
Loubardeas, Constantinos (Gus)
1934 – 2020
LOUBARDEAS, Constantinos (Gus)
December 20, 1934-April 20, 2020
On Monday, April 20, 2020, Constantinos (Gus) Loubardeas at the age of 85. passed away peacefully. The world has lost a kind and generous man, known for his warm smile.
Gus was born in the town of Paralio Astros, Greece to his parents Helen and Peter Loubardeas. Surviving sisters Theodoti (Manoli) Orfanos, Panayota Georgiou, Alexandra Mavitzis, and brother Stavros Loubardias (Janice Sulik). He came to Canada in 1959 by boat with nothing more than a small suitcase and a Grade-one education.
In his early years, he worked in a variety of small businesses including Mr. Softie Ice Cream Truck, A & W and Well’s Painting. He was the founder of Venice Pizza & Spaghetti House, which grew to 24 restaurants at its peak and was spread across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Gus always loved the restaurant business with his final venture being the Beacon Drive In (Ice Cream Shop) in Victoria.
Gus was the definition of a successful entrepreneur. Gus’s generosity meant that he helped many others become entrepreneurs. He is survived by his first wife Jean Loubardeas, their son Peter (Barbara) Loubardeas and their children Michael (Kendra), Christopher and Stephanie, Daughter Helen (Tony) Turay and their children Maria (Ashton) Phillips, Katie, Great-grandchildren Maxwell, and Arthur. His second wife Helen Buckley-Loubardeas and their daughter Deanne Loubardeas (Nicole Little). He will also be greatly missed by his special dog Mimi.
He was predeceased by his parents: brothers Dimitris (infant) and Haralambos: sister Triantafillia; sister-in-law Eleni Loubardeas: brothers-in-law Nick Theodorou and Chris Georgiou.
The family would like to extend their appreciation to all the staff at the Amica Douglas House for their kind support during his stay. A special thank you to Rev. Father George Tolias and nurse Suman. His friends and family will truly miss his positive loving support.
Due to COVID-19, there will be a private family Greek Orthodox service in Victoria, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice in Gus’s memory. Arrangements entrusted to McCall Gardens, 250-385-4465. Condolences for the family may be left at www.mccallgardens.com.
Rest in Peace
Ο Θεός να σε ανάπαυση
Source: Saskatoon StarPhoenix, April 25, 2020, p. NP7.